Israel Gelfer thanks Kirsan Ilyumzhinov for his work and friendship

On 10 October, a letter from FIDE Vice President Israel Gelfer arrived at Kirsan Ilyumzhinov's Moscow office. The letter reads as follows:

“Dear Kirsan, We have just concluded the FIDE congress, starting a new era in FIDE, with the hope that it will be a positive time for our organization. We have all read your letter to all delegates, which was very impressive.

You have also noticed the motion in the board, thanking you for 23 years of such a huge contribution to the chess world. I am sure. and know , that FIDE will find the time and opportunity to thank you in a much better and greater scale, which you deserve. As for myself, I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for so many years of your contribution to FIDE and such personal warm relationships with me, which are unforgettable.

Unfortunately FIDE, and myself, had to stand on opposite sides since you were put in this famous list, and my position was that justified or not, this fact had to prevent you from continuing in your position as FIDE president. In spite of this fact I would like to stress, as mentioned above, that I will always cherish you and our relationships during 20 years, and you will always be in my heart as a good person and a good friend.

I am very proud being so close to you for such a period and I wish you success in every new career you will go, good health and happiness.